New Delhi, Aug 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modihas ordered immediate steps to be taken for minimising damages and losses from floods in rivers in Odisha, Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said today. In a statement, Pradhan said due to incessant and heavy rains in Odisha and Chhatisgarh recently, the major rivers of Odisha are flowing over the danger mark.

The level of water in Hirakund dam has also crossed the danger mark. “There is a danger that the flood situation may worsen in the state, particularly the coastal region,” he said. “I have met the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister (Rajnath Singh) to apprise them of the situation. Both the leaders have conveyed their concern at the situation, and directed for immediate action for minimising the damages and losses,” he said.

The Home Minister has already spoken to the Odisha Chief Minister, and assured him full support of the Central government in dealing with the situation. “The NDRF contingent and helicopters have been kept in the state of readiness, in addition to eight teams of NDRF who have been dispatched for the rescue and relief operations in Odisha. “The situation is being continuously monitored, so that adequate and timely relief could be provided to the people of Odisha,” he added.